Council Tax Reduction
You could be entitled to money to help pay your Council Tax bill.
Council Tax is a property-based tax paid to local authorities. Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to discounts or an exemption on your Council Tax bill.
How much Council Tax you pay depends on:
There are some circumstances where you may get a discount on your Council Tax. The amount of discount varies depending on your circumstances.
The full Council Tax is calculated assuming there are 2 or more people living in each home – if you live alone, you should apply to your local council for a discount. You could get a 25% discount, regardless of your financial circumstances.
Council Tax isn’t calculated on anyone aged under 18, full-time students, student nurses and some apprentices and trainees.
Carers who look after someone in the household for at least 35 hours a week and who meet additional criteria may be disregarded for Council Tax purposes. Contact your local council for their eligibility criteria. This doesn't apply if the person receiving care is the carer's partner or their under-18 child.
You may be able to get your home moved to a lower Council Tax band if your home has decreased in value. For example, if you’ve made home adaptations for a disabled person, or if a motorway has been built nearby. Contact your local office of the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) if you think your home’s Council Tax band should be changed
Although the total year’s amount will stay the same, you can request that your bill be split over 12 months (instead of 10 months) so that each month’s bill is less. Alternatively, if you can afford to pay a year’s worth in one lump sum, check if you can get a discount.
You may be eligible to claim Council Tax Reduction, which used to be called Council Tax Benefit, if you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits.
There are other discounts and exemptions you can claim to reduce your Council Tax, which might be available to you if:
If you think you're eligible, get in touch with your local authority to apply for a discount or exemption.
Council Tax is compulsory and must be paid. If you don’t pay it or you fall behind on your payments, the council will send you a reminder letter. If you don’t pay after a few reminders then the council can take you to court.
If you're struggling to pay your Council Tax because of financial difficulties, then seek professional advice as soon as you can. Get in touch with your local Age UK or Citizens Advice.
Councils may have a hardship fund available for people in financial difficulty. Contact your local council to find out what funds, if any, might be available and how to apply.
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.
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